In the evolving landscape of post-pandemic employment, a new phenomenon has emerged: polygamous working. This term refers to individuals holding two or more full-time jobs simultaneously, often without the knowledge of their employers. As hybrid and remote working models become more prevalent, this practice has gained traction, raising significant questions about ethics, legality, and job security.
Understanding Polygamous Working
Unlike traditional moonlighting or side hustles, which typically involve secondary roles for extra income, polygamous working involves juggling multiple primary positions. This trend has flourished in an era where remote work allows employees to manage responsibilities from home, with video calls often disabled to avoid detection. While it might seem like a clever response to economic uncertainty, it carries substantial risks.
Legal Implications and Fraud Concerns
There is no specific law against having multiple jobs in the UK, but polygamous working can cross into fraudulent territory. Employment contracts often include clauses requiring disclosure of other roles or prohibiting them outright. Breaching these terms can lead to legal action, as seen in recent high-profile cases.
For instance, a woman was convicted of fraud last month for holding full-time positions at both Barnet Council and Croydon Council. This case highlights how public sector bodies, through initiatives like the National Fraud Initiative (NFI), are using data cross-referencing to identify and prosecute such activities. In the last financial year, the NFI uncovered 13 similar cases, though the true scale may be larger due to underreporting.
The Role of Technology and Community
The rise of online communities, such as Reddit's r/overemployed, has facilitated the spread of tips on managing multiple jobs discreetly. These platforms offer advice on avoiding detection, from scheduling conflicts to performance management. However, this digital support network also underscores the growing prevalence of polygamous working, with some individuals boasting of holding up to four jobs at once.
Ethical and Practical Considerations
Proponents argue that if work is completed and salaries are paid, polygamous working is a victimless crime. Yet, it can undermine trust, lead to burnout, and potentially defraud employers or taxpayers. In the public sector, where accountability is paramount, such practices are particularly scrutinised.
Hybrid working offers many benefits, including flexibility and work-life balance, but it also presents challenges. Employers must navigate how to monitor productivity without infringing on privacy, while employees should be aware of contractual obligations to avoid legal pitfalls.
What to Say and Avoid
When discussing this topic, it's wise to acknowledge the complexities: "There are many benefits to hybrid working for employer and employee; unfortunately, this is one of the downsides." Conversely, avoid dismissive remarks like, "Honestly, I wasn't doing another job while pretending to work from home. I was just skiing," as they trivialise serious issues.
As the workforce continues to adapt to new norms, polygamous working serves as a reminder of the fine line between innovation and misconduct. Staying informed about employment laws and ethical standards is crucial for both workers and organisations in the UK.
